Mad Men Emmy Shocker: Elisabeth Moss and January Jones in First Lead Actress Faceoff

Here’s a twist I dare say not even Mad Men creator Matt Weiner would’ve dreamed up: After years of taking turns in the lead actress category at the Emmys, Elisabeth Moss and January Jones are now poised to, for the first time, go head to head!

For the AMC hit’s first two seasons, Moss entered in lead, and Jones ran in supporting. Then, Moss — who had considerably less screen time in season 3 than Jones — dropped down to supporting to make way for her castmate in lead. That move paid off beautifully: Both were nominated.

Now, though, Moss has decided to move back up to lead — hardly an unexpected turn of events, given how prominently featured Peggy was during season 4. In fact, the actress’ tour de force performance in “The Suitcase” episode alone easily makes her a frontrunner. What is a shock is that Jones — whose screen time was dramatically cut in the wake of Betty’s divorce from Don — didn’t return to supporting.

So, certainly Jones’ decision will raise eyebrows, especially if the potential vote-splitting costs Moss her nod. Then again, if this year’s Golden Globe race is any hint of what’s to come, Moss has nothing to worry about. The two vied for lead actress there, too, but only Moss ended up getting nominated. The Emmy contenders will be announced in mid-July.

Thoughts? Do you think Jones should’ve stood down as a courtesy to Moss — just as Moss did for her the prior year? Hit the comments!